2009 Ford Focus vs. 1998 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2009 Ford Focus is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 3,353 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Pontiac Firebird (147 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 2009 Ford Focus. (143 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 2009 Ford Focus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 3 kg more than 2009 Ford Focus. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 Pontiac Firebird is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1998 Pontiac Firebird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Ford Focus, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 1998 Pontiac Firebird (257 Nm @ 3150 RPM) has 72 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Ford Focus. (185 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1998 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Ford Focus.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Ford Focus | 1998 Pontiac Firebird | |
Make | Ford | Pontiac |
Model | Focus | Firebird |
Year Released | 2009 | 1998 |
Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1999 cc | 3353 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 143 HP | 147 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4600 RPM |
Torque | 185 Nm | 257 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3150 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1525 kg | 1528 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 4920 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1900 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1310 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2570 mm |